Thriving cities are embracing their historic industrial structures to create healthier communities, celebrate local history and arts and foster economic development.

Steel Stacks at the former Bethlehem Steel site has been adaptively recreated as the ArtsQuest cultural hub for Bethlehem, PA.

Erie's Matt Lebovich needs to be the master of ceremonies at a Viaduct party.

Liberty Bridge, Budapest

VISION - Yes, the bridge looks a bit shabby, and, the view of the metal recycling center isn't pretty. But, its GRITTY and that is what we should embrace. Let's make lemonade!

COST - ErieCPR has proposed stabilization of the Viaduct for non-vehicular use ($3 million.) This can be partially funded using$1.7M in PennDOT. Remaining funds can be raised from several sources. The City can apply to the new local fund to fix/build municipal bike paths, roads and bridges. In addition, after the establishment of a public-private partnership (like Frontier Park's LEAF) the new City grant writer can work with volunteers to obtain the balance needed to fix and maintain the bridge.

INSURANCE & MAINTENANCE - Insurance and maintenance aren't obstacles to saving the Viaduct. The City pays one bill for all of Erie, no changes if the Viaduct goes or stays. Once the Viaduct is re-skinned, maintenance costs will be minimal and can be supported by the public-private partnership, perhaps ErieCPR.

LET'S GET VISIONARY - Erie has a new Mayor and some new City Council members who have promised bold, new, transparent leadership. PLEASE ASK ALL YOUR ELECTED LEADERS to hold a PUBLIC HEARING ON THE VIADUCT before any demolition contract is signed.